Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with actress Katherine Ro about her journey in the entertainment industry, balancing career and family life, and the challenges of voice acting versus traditional acting. They also discuss the importance of independent film festivals, the skills required for stunt work, and insights from industry professionals. The conversation covers a range of topics related to the creative and practical aspects of pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.

We also talk about:

• Nashville Film Festival Recap and Housekeeping
• Chris and Nick discuss the recent Nashville Film Festival, highlighting standout films and notable attendees.
• They emphasize the importance of subscribing and liking the podcast on YouTube to support their indie film journey.
• Prince George County Film Festival Experience
• Nick shares his experience at the Prince George County Film Festival, where he connected with local talent and former podcast guests.
• The hosts discuss the value of supporting local film festivals and the sense of community they foster.
• Katherine’s experience filming the prequel to "The Terminal List" in Budapest.
• Katherine discusses her early interest in entertainment and her transition to acting after starting with modeling and voiceover work.
• Balancing Career and Family Life
• Katherine shares her experiences balancing her career with family responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of communication and support from her husband.
• Katherine discusses the sacrifices and compromises required to pursue a career in the entertainment industry while maintaining a healthy family life.
• Voice Acting vs. Traditional Acting
• Intern Sam presents a poll comparing the difficulty of voice acting versus traditional acting.
• Katherine and the hosts discuss the technical and creative challenges of voice acting, including projection, inflection, and the need for specific training.
• Poll Results and Audience Engagement
• Intern Sam shares the poll results on the most iconic fashion movie… (you must listen to find the answer!)
• We discuss our favorite fashion movies and the performances of actors like Ben Stiller and Adam Driver.
• Stunt Work and Industry Insights
• Producer Papa Bear introduces a trivia question about a prominent Venezuelan stunt actress, Vanessa Mota.
• Katherine discusses the skills and challenges of stunt work, highlighting the unsung heroes of the film industry.

Enjoy! 

Things You Should Research, Support, and Buy:

• MAKE IT YouTube Channel
• Velvety-Soft Tees & Hoodies. We have incredible hats, too! Find them at Cotton Bureau
• Subscribe to our newsletter, Indie Insights
• Katherine’s IMDb
• Katherine’s Instagram: @thekathrynro
• Burger Fiction’s YouTube channel “Watch this amazing compilation “Every Tom Cruise Run Ever.”
• The Terminal List Trailer
• BET+ Original Movie | Whatever It Takes | Trailer

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

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Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with filmmakers Aaron Irons and Josh Croft about their experiences at the Defy Film Festival, their independent horror films "Chest" and "Jeffrey's Hell," and their overall approach to low-budget, authentic filmmaking. The conversation covers the importance of community, resourcefulness, and staying true to one's creative vision in the independent film industry. The hosts and guests also discuss the horror genre, the challenges of marketing films, and the value of streaming platforms for indie filmmakers.

Enjoy!

The show notes include the following:

Introduction and Music Discussion

Chris Barkley introduces the podcast and guests Aaron Irons and Josh Croft, along with co-host Nick Buggs and discussion of the concept of "sophomore slump" in music.

Defy Film Festival and Chest Movie

• Aaron Irons and Josh Croft discuss the significance of Defy Film Festival and their experience with the premiere of their film "Chest."
• Chris clarifies a previous misunderstanding about the availability of an audio-only episode with Gail Ann Hurd on YouTube.

Defy Festival Highlights and Jeffrey's Hell

• Josh Croft provides details about the Defy festival and the unique experience of attending.
• Aaron Irons talks about the sequel to "Chest," titled "Jeffrey's Hell," and its unconventional production process.

Found Footage Genre and Streaming Platforms

• Discussion of the found footage genre, its popularity, and the financial realities of filmmaking.
• Insights into the found footage community and the importance of streaming platforms like Tubi for independent filmmakers.

Filmmaking Philosophies and Future Plans

• Aaron Irons and Josh Croft talk about their approach to filmmaking, emphasizing resourcefulness and practicality.
• They express a preference for maintaining creative control and not being beholden to external funding.

Polls and Audience Engagement

• Intern Sam introduces polls about the best horror director and the best Tim Burton movie.
• The conversation includes a discussion about the significance of these directors and their contributions to the horror genre.

Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

• Reflections on the poll results and the importance of community support and resourcefulness in filmmaking.
• Guests express gratitude for the support and excitement for their upcoming projects.

Here is a bulleted list of the products, software, websites, and other items mentioned in the conversation:

- Tubi

- Stash Chills and Thrills (YouTube channel)

- Letterboxd

- Full Moon Cineplex (Hermitage, TN)

- Defy Film Festival

- Chest (film)

- Jeffrey's Hell (film)

- Hey, I Made This for You (film)

- Bonsai.film

- Cotton Bureau

- Indie Insights newsletter

- Chris' X Page (social media platform)

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

www.themakeitpodcast.com

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk to David "D. Bird" Birdsall, the co-founder of the White Collar Rhymes Discord community. They discuss D. Bird's experience organizing a music project that brought together internet friends from around the world to create The Last Mixtape album and documentary in a mansion in Austin, Texas.

The conversation covers the challenges of filming the project, the distinct qualities of Northwest hip hop, the influence of artists like Atmosphere and Aesop Rock, and D Bird's thoughts on the use of AI in music.

We also talk about:

• The early days of DJing and its evolution as an instrument
• The impact of the recent rap beef between Drake and Kendrick Lamar
• The importance of truth and verifiable claims in diss tracks
• The potential for AI to dominate certain music genres, like mid-level country
• The first hip hop film, "Wild Style," and the preservation of hip hop history

Enjoy!

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

www.themakeitpodcast.com

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with Director and Cinematographer Tiffany Murray about her experiences working in the film industry directing, shooting, and trying her hand at producing. They discuss her recent film, 2 Lives in Pittsburgh, and the challenges of independent filmmaking. The conversation also explores issues of inclusivity in the workplace and how to foster respectful collaboration.

We also talk about:

• Tiffany's background and past projects, like the Southbridge podcast

• The complexities and costs of producing a high-quality podcast 

• The impact of social media algorithms on content success and the importance of strategic marketing

• Technical decisions made during the production of 2 Lives in Pittsburgh.

• Systemic issues that contribute to passive aggression and lack of agency in professional settings

Enjoy!

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

Subscribe to our newsletter at www.bonsai.film/subscribe

www.themakeitpodcast.com

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk about the upcoming Nashville Film Festival, the recent Sundance Film Festival host city announcement, and the Make It Podcast reaching a major milestone of 100,000 subscribers on YouTube.

They also discuss the legacy of the late James Earl Jones, analyze box office trends, and dive into audience reception of Disney live-action remakes.

We also talk about:

• The potential impact of Sundance moving to different host cities and how it could have affected the Nashville film scene

• The collaborative nature of filmmaking and the potential consequences of halting projects due to allegations against individuals

• The complexities of separating the art from the artist and the nuances of enjoying the work of controversial figures

• The role of bots and social media in shaping public perception and outrage around these issues

• The challenges American audiences face in embracing international sports and the cultural differences that contribute to this

• Audience perceptions of Disney's live-action remakes

• The cultural impact and rise of musician Bad Bunny

• Recommendations for Adam Sandler's family-friendly film offerings

Enjoy!

Bodega Artist of the Week

LO LA

Track: happy 4 u

Lola Ficks-Chen, better known as LO LA is a Los Angeles based indie pop artist and a one woman team. Known for her infectious lyrics and sweet melodies, she has developed her own unique sound and amassed millions of streams all on her own terms. In "happy 4 u" she dives into the complexities of dealing with exes and the reality of a heartbreak. The dark electro pop track is supported with a pulsating bass line and makes listeners feel as if they’re stuck in a trance. Coupled with honest and raw lyrics, LO LA holds nothing back as she deals with the emotional complexities of a breakup.

Website

TikTok

Instagram

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk about Director Mike Day's transition from accounting to producing and directing, his work on major Hollywood films, and the challenges of managing film budgets. They discuss Mike's directing style and influences, as well as the marketing strategy for his latest film "Clawfoot." The conversation also includes insights from polls on classic Hitchcock movies and the greatest action directors, as well as a story about a famous director's costly mistake at the airport.

We Also Talk About:

• The importance of perseverance and gratitude in Mike's journey as a filmmaker
• The challenges of making independent films and getting them noticed in Hollywood
• The role of the dominant culture and its influence on the stories that get told in film
• The value of building a strong body of work and demonstrating competence as a director
• The significance of honest and effective marketing for independent films

Enjoy! 

Bodega Artist of the Week

Kendra Erika

Track: Ghost

Kendra Erika is an American singer-songwriter known for her captivating blend of pop and EMD. With influences ranging from Madonna to Lady Gaga, Kendra Erika crafts infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with audiences worldwide. Her music often explores themes of love, empowerment, and self-discovery, drawing listeners into her world with each captivating track. "Ghost" explores themes of love, loss, and longing, with Kendra Erika delivering a haunting vocal performance that resonates with listeners. The song's production combines atmospheric synths, driving beats, and catchy hooks, creating a captivating sonic landscape.

Website

TikTok

Instagram

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

All Links: https://beacons.ai/themakeitpodcast

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris has a conversation with acclaimed film and television producer Gale Anne Hurd. Hurd discusses her storied career, including her start working for legendary producer Roger Corman, her breakout success producing The Terminator, and her influential work on iconic projects like Aliens and The Walking Dead. Throughout the conversation, Hurd shares valuable insights and advice for aspiring filmmakers and producers.

We Also Talk About:

• Gale Anne Hurd introduces herself and her background as a producer of films like The Terminator, Aliens, Armageddon, and the TV series The Walking Dead.
• Hurd shares how her first interview with Roger Corman in 1978 led to her becoming a producer despite initially thinking she would be interviewed for an assistant role.
• Hurd discusses the key skills and qualities essential for successful directors and producers, including having a clear vision, prioritizing, working well with others, and being a team player.
• Hurd reflects on common mistakes she has observed producers make, such as not being fully prepared and trying to "fake it until they make it. " She emphasizes the importance of paying your dues and developing the necessary skillset.
• Hurd provides insights into her approach to marketing and pitching projects, highlighting the value of effective copywriting and visual aids in presentations.
• Hurd shares advice for aspiring filmmakers and producers, stressing the importance of not faking it, being willing to do any legal task, and sacrificing to pursue a career in the industry.
• Hurd discusses the challenges she faced as a woman in the film industry in the 1980s and the progress made, emphasizing the importance of having a support system and not giving up during tough times.
• Hurd shares her contact information and social media presence, including her Twitter handle @gunnerGale, and nods to her support for the Arsenal Football Club.
• Hurd's favorite story about her mentor, Roger Corman, and the valuable lessons she learned from him
• The importance of delegating and not trying to do everything yourself, as Hurd learned early in her career
• Hurd's thoughts on the value of union work and the debates around hiring union versus non-union crew members
• Hurd's advocacy for women and diversity in the film industry and the tools and strategies she has used to overcome challenges
• Hurd's experience with meditation and self-care as a way to stay resilient and optimistic during difficult times in her career

Enjoy! 

Gale on the web:

https://valhallaentertainment.com/

https://x.com/valhallapics

https://x.com/GunnerGale

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris and Nick discuss the challenges facing the animation industry as it grapples with the potential impact of AI and Warner Brothers' $8.5 billion investment in Nevada, which is contingent on a film tax credit incentive bill.

We also talk about:

- The phenomenon of sequel fatigue and Hollywood's reliance on franchises

- The importance of marketing in the success of independent films

- The need for a new approach to judging the profitability of independent films

- The results of polls on the best rap or hip hop movie and the potential for biopics on various rappers

- Final thoughts and reflections on the changing landscape of the film industry

Enjoy!

Bodega Artist of the Week

Certainly So

Track: Patience

Certainly So is what you get when four long-time friends and musicians, who never seemed to be in the same band, discover what they’d been missing; sparking the birth of a new quartet. The melding of classic influences and unique tastes of each member with an extreme desire to make music that is reminiscent but entirely new and relevant is the perfect recipe for new-age hits. In “Patience,” the band explores a toxic relationship's tumultuous ups and downs. The song has a sweet melody that carries listeners into a building crescendo filled with drums, guitar, soaring strings, and swirling vocals. By the end, it reaches an emotionally chaotic peak while still remaining vulnerable.

Website

Instagram

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

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Hello, Hello!

In this episode, Chris has a conversation with Linda Nelson, the CEO and co-founder of Indie Rights, a leading independent film distribution company. They discuss Linda's journey from a small town in upstate New York to becoming a pioneer in the indie film distribution space, including her experiences with the NSYNC concert film, the challenges of making independent films, and the strategies she and her partner Michael Madison have used to build a successful distribution business. Linda shares valuable insights on filmmaking, distribution, marketing, and overcoming setbacks in the industry.

Show Notes:

• Linda Nelson's background: math major, art/psych minor, early career in banking and real estate
• Making the NSYNC concert film and the legal issues that followed
• Transitioning to independent filmmaking and the challenges of working out of a public storage facility
• The importance of persistence and embracing technology in the film industry
• Linda's parents' influence on her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit
• The impact of streaming services on independent filmmakers and the opportunities in emerging markets
• Indie rights' distribution model and the importance of providing filmmakers with detailed analytics
• Strategies for effective film marketing and building an audience through social media
• Recommendations for essential filmmaking books and advice on overcoming setbacks
• Linda's favorite Italian restaurants in LA and the importance of travel in expanding one's worldview

We Also Talk About:

• Linda and her partner Michael's complementary skills and roles in running Indie Rights
• The importance of proper music licensing and creating "network-friendly" versions of films
• The evolution of distribution platforms and the need for filmmakers to stay adaptable
• Linda's recommendations for essential filmmaking books and the importance of reading for inspiration
• Chris and Linda's shared experiences of growing up in modest, small-town environments and the impact on their creative pursuits

Enjoy! 

Bodega Artist of the Week

Rochelle Bloom - Time Remember (feat. Renee Gardner)

Hailing from Northwest Indiana and now calling Atlanta home, Rochelle Bloom has established herself as an undeniable force. Her music embodies a happy place with dark corners, where rhythm, rhyme, and unfiltered truth converge in explosive songwriting. With her own unique style of rap mixed at times with an abstract spoken word cadence, this artist weaves poetry into her music. This song evokes imagery of a tropical paradise in the telling of an intimate love story. 

Instagram

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

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Hello, Hello! 

In this episode, Chris and Nick talk with documentary filmmakers John Kirby and Libby Handros. They discuss their 25-year partnership and their upcoming documentary film cycle "Four Died Trying," which explores the major assassinations of the 1960s. The conversation covers topics such as state involvement in these assassinations, the lack of transparency around the investigations, and the importance of understanding history and promoting positive social change.

Show Notes:

• John Kirby and Libby Handros discuss their 25-year partnership in documentary filmmaking, including their work on the festival favorite "The American Ruling Class" and their current project, "Four Died Trying."
• The guests share details about their interviews with over 130 people, including Bob Groden and the late Dick Gregory, for their "Four Died Trying" documentary series, which explores the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Bobby Kennedy, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr.
• The group discusses the lack of transparency and documentation around the JFK and RFK assassinations, in contrast to the civil trials and FBI documents that have emerged for the Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. assassinations.
• They explore the international implications of Malcolm X's work and the Kennedys' connections to Africa, as well as the role of the Warren Commission and Operation Gladio in obscuring the truth about these events.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of researching and discussing conspiracy theories, the importance of critical thinking and independent research, and the preference for conflict-driven narratives in documentaries.
• The guests share their insights on the power of nonviolent resistance, the legacy of Dick Gregory, and the need for more positive and uplifting stories in filmmaking.

We also talk about:

• The attempted assassination of Donald Trump and the timing of the release of a documentary about the event
• The importance of the Warren Commission and its handling of the JFK assassination investigation
• The concept of "patsies" in high-profile assassinations, such as Sirhan Sirhan in the RFK case and James Earl Ray in the MLK case
• The lack of a Truth and Reconciliation committee to address the assassinations of the 1960s
• The influence of the military-industrial complex and big oil interests on the presidency, particularly in the case of Lyndon B. Johnson

Bodega Artist of the Week

Amy Jay - Joke

New York based singer/songwriter Amy Jay harnesses the power of vulnerability and introspection with euphonious indie-folk music that captures the afflictions of humanity and explores the depths of emotionality. “Joke” asks if life is just one big joke when things don’t go as planned or when crazy events happen in the world. While its lyrics are moody, they are tinged with hope that there might be an explanation.The drums establish a pounding rhythm from the opening notes, giving the song an urgent, restless feel. The insistent beat seems to represent the endless march of days where nothing makes sense. The guitar melody echoes the anxiety expressed throughout.

Instagram

TikTok

We are humbled to have a community of creatives who care deeply about our work. And your support makes our work possible. Every subscriber, rating, and review matters. So, if you like what we're doing, please consider subscribing, rating, or giving us a review. Cheers, and best of luck on your filmmaking journey. #MAKEIT

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